Remember that first bank or combo shot you ever made? Or, how about that first time you kicked in a ball when you were hooked? These shots are fun to shoot. When they work, they’re exciting and can make a fan out of any beginner. These shots, however, are not exactly practical and should really only be used when necessary.

While running out a rack of 8-ball or 9-ball, it’s always ideal to seek the path of least resistance. As you become more serious and start winning more games, this is something you’ll want to consider. Resist the temptation to show off with that fancy shot and choose the sensible route.

Save the flashy shots for play time. When you’re competing, keeping things simple will help you complete more run outs.

Here are a few ways to successfully K.I.S.S:

If a ball goes, don’t move it.
Try not to be reckless. If a ball has a clear path to a pocket, play position for it without moving it. Whenever you move a ball, there’s no promise you’ll have a pocket for it later. When you’re guaranteed a shot, take it.

If you’re on it, shoot it.
Greed can cause the end of a run. Once you identify a trouble ball, one that may be tough to play position for, get rid of it as soon as possible. Far too often, players get in the perfect window to pocket that tricky ball but because they wanted to get closer or get a better shot at it, they may never see it again. Unless there’s a fail proof way to get another shot at it, when you have one, take it.

Don’t play position when you already have it.
In general, you should always be playing position for three balls at a time. With that in mind, when getting to the next ball, be aware of how little you can move the cue ball while still achieving the same results. For instance, holding the cue ball with a stop shot can often be just as effective as and simpler to shoot than attempting to bounce it off the rail. When the difference in the end result is so minute, it’s not worth the risk of possibly missing the shot.

Never miss a shot attempting to create an angle.
Sometimes we just need to settle for the best position we’re able to get. When there’s little to no angle, there’s only so far you’ll be able to move that cue ball. Don’t try to defy physics. You may get the position for the next shot but you’ll most likely miss the object ball. It’s better to have the tougher shot and accept what the table gives you.

Remember, when in doubt, think K.I.S.S. and keep your run going. Save the hard work. Keep things simple and keep your run going. The next time you’re in the mile high area and looking for a Denver billiard instructor, be sure to look me up.